GENERAL INFORMATION

Visas:
Citizens of many Western European countries, Japan and New Zealand need only a valid passport for visits of up to three months. Citizens of the UK, USA, Ireland, Canada and Australia do need visas. These are obtainable in advance at a Turkish consulate, or upon entry to Turkey, at a cost of £10.

Currency:
Turkey's currency is the Turkish New Lira. Many shops and restaurants in the coastal resorts and big cities accept payment in foreign currency. But if you are planning to travel to other parts of the country, it is advisable to take some Turkish Lira.

With a credit or debit card you can withdraw local currency from cash machines which are found in convenient locations in cities, towns and resorts. There are also cash machines in the arrivals halls at most airports. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops.

Travellers' cheques and cash can be exchanged for TL at banks and private exchange offices in Turkey. The exchange rate is approx:

Weather in Bolu:
Steppe climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters

Electricity:
220 volts AC all over Turkey (A European adaptor will be suitable).

Tap water:
Safe to drink in all cities since it has been chlorinated.

Foreign Newspapers:
Available in large cities and tourist areas.

Good buys:
Carpets, suede and leather goods, jewellery, copper and brass vessels, pottery, meerschaum pipes, embroidery and onyx.

Local dishes:
A Turkish meal will often start with meze (hors d'oeuvres), which are shared between the whole table. Starters include sarma (rice in vine leaves), humus and beyaz peynir (sheep's cheese). Examples of main courses include döner kebap, þiþ kebap (lamb on a skewer) and pirzola (grilled mutton). Desserts are very sweet. Try the puff pastry specialities, baklava, þöviyet and bülbül.

Visiting a mosque:
Five times a day, the "müezzin" calls the faithful to prayer in the mosque. Before entering a mosque, Muslims wash themselves and remove their shoes. Foreign visitors should also remove their shoes and show the respect they would any other house of worship and avoid visiting the mosque during prayer time. Women should cover their heads and arms, and not wear miniskirts. Men should not wear shorts.

Speak Turkish: